Bill > SB1591

This bill directs the Oregon Business Development Department (OBDD) to study the potential creation of a new inland port, to be called the Port of Central Oregon, in Deschutes, Jefferson, or Crook counties, with the goal of coordinating infrastructure, improving trade, and fostering economic growth. The study must include recommendations on various aspects of the port's establishment, such as its governing body, boundaries, potential foreign trade zone, funding mechanisms including bonding and taxation authority, additional powers beyond those typically granted to ports, efficient resource use through principles like industrial symbiosis, promotion of economic development and multimodal freight systems, coordination with federally recognized Indian tribes, and potential ownership and operational structures for specific facilities like the CORE3 emergency response center, Bend Municipal Airport, and Juniper Ridge. The OBDD is required to submit its findings and any legislative recommendations to the relevant interim legislative committees by September 15, 2027, and the provisions of this study will be repealed on January 2, 2028, with the bill taking effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2026R1/Measures/Overview/SB1591